University of Wolverhampton forges new links with construction training body

THE University of Wolverhampton and the leading provider of construction training in the country have joined forces in a first of its kind agreement to develop new skills development and employment opportunities.

The university, a leading provider of advanced courses in the Built Environment, and the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding agreeing to work closer together and collaborate on key areas.

CITB is the industry training board for the UK construction sector and this is the first agreement of its kind with a university.

The new agreement will look at ways the two bodies can support apprenticeships, internships and placements, expand research and development opportunities, build continuous professional development opportunities in the sector and provide an input on curriculum development within the Built Environment offer of the University.

Vice-Chancellor of the University of Wolverhampton, Professor Geoff Layer, said: “This agreement is about putting Wolverhampton and the Black Country firmly on the map and at the heart of economic development when it comes to construction management and education.

“It is crucial that we constantly seek to invest in what we do and this will take the Built Environment forward. It will help create a cutting edge image and vision for the construction sector in the UK.

“We are very excited to be working in partnership with the CITB. Pooling our strengths it can really open doors by helping develop and improve skills and push research and business engagement forward.”

He said the university had a history of developing skilled workers and this agreement would ensure its record continued.

Andy Walder, Director of CITB’s National Construction College, said: “As an organisation we are dedicated to improving skills, attracting talent, developing training and engaging with employers.

“This agreement presents a great opportunity for us to help develop courses with the university which will have a practical application and create the professionals of the future.

“It will also provide an opportunity to enhance research, development and innovation to develop new ways of working.”

The agreement is for an initial five-year period.